🥜 Hazelnuts

Legumes, nuts & seedsAge not specifiedSeason: Hazelnuts are a seasonal crop, harvested in late summer to early autumn. In the Northern Hemisphere, which dominates global production, the peak harvest and availability are from August to October.

Allergen note

Hazelnuts are a common allergen; introduce them in a safe, smooth form like a small amount of thinned hazelnut butter mixed into a familiar food, and watch closely for any reaction.

How to serve

For infants over 12 months, serve a thin smear of smooth hazelnut butter on toast or mix a pinch of finely ground powder into yogurt. Always supervise and start with a tiny portion to check for allergies.

Preparation

Always finely grind hazelnuts into a smooth powder or butter to prevent choking, and ensure they are thoroughly cooked or toasted to aid digestion.

Texture and choking risk

Hazelnuts are a choking risk; always finely grind them into a paste or powder and never serve whole or chopped to infants and toddlers, with close supervision during meals.

Starting ages are typical guidance for healthy, full-term babies who show signs of readiness. Your paediatrician may advise differently, especially where there is a family history of allergy.